In Depth

Philadelphia in 2006 boasts one of the country's fastest growing dining scenes -- augmented by a recent citywide smoking ban. Our famous sports fans are still boasting about the Phils' and Birds' arenas to the south of Center City. Our artists are benefiting from a revived performing arts district. Come for affordable hotel packages (even at luxury properties), excellent shopping, and the Bell and the cheesesteaks.

Ben Franklin Lives! An Interview with Ralph Archbold

You didn't just hallucinate Ben Franklin eating a cheesesteak in Independence Square Park. Philadelphia's official Ben Franklin, Ralph Archbold, performs frequently at museums and attractions throughout the city -- and even Ben needs to eat between gigs. Archbold has been featured in various television specials, including a 2004 History Channel bio that touted Franklin as an "ambassador, scientist, and ladies man." He was also appointed by the president and Congress to a 15-member federal commission to oversee the celebration of Franklin's 300th birthday (Jan 17, 2006; visit www.benfranklin300.org for details). We caught up with Archbold to ask about his career and the man he portrays.

Frommer's: How did you start performing as Ben Franklin?

Ralph Archbold: I started performing at historic Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan in 1973. (That is the village that Henry Ford started.) I came to Philadelphia in 1981 and have been performing here ever since.

F: What's the best part of playing Franklin?

RA: I love the variety of audiences I perform for and the affection people seem to have for Mr. Franklin. The presentations I do are in storytelling form and I love telling stories.

F: What's the most challenging?

RA: Trying to fit in all the requests for my services as Ben is my biggest challenge. I love performing and the demand is great. I especially love interacting with the visitors in Independence National Historical Park during the summer.

F: What's your favorite of Franklin's proverbs?

RA: "A true friend is the best possession" is one of my favorites. I really love them all.

F: Why do you think Ben Franklin appeals to children so much?

RA: I think he appeals to the childlike enthusiasm and excitement in people of all ages and with his variety of inventions and adventures he is an inspiration to us all.

F: What's the most common misconception about Franklin?

RA: That he fathered a lot of children. He was the father of three: William, Sarah, and Francis.

F: Can you explain in your own words the "ladies man" connection? How much of a romancer was Franklin, and did his affairs end once he got married?

RA: Most of the ladies man reputation came when Ben was in France and his wife had died 2 years earlier. As far as we know there is no proof he cheated on his wife. His son William, born around the time he and Deborah Read became man and wife Sept. 1, 1730, was illegitimate.

F: What were some of Ben Franklin's flaws? Did he have any?

RA: He always said he was accused of lacking humility but if he were able to conquer it he would be so proud.

F: Of all the museums and bridges and other Franklin tributes throughout the city, which one does the best job of conveying his character and spirit?

RA: It would be impossible to pick any one historic site in Philadelphia that does the "best" job of conveying the Franklin spirit and character. That is why if visitors want the complete picture they need to stay several days and visit the Independence Visitor Center, Franklin Court, the Franklin Institute, the Lights of Liberty Show, the National Constitution Center, Independence Hall, Fireman's Hall, Pennsylvania Hospital, and all the streets and buildings among the many places Franklin worked and walked.

F: What would Franklin think of these tributes?

RA: The variety and number of statues and locations talking about him would amaze him.

F: What would Franklin think of the current political landscape? Would he identify with any particular politicians today? Do you see any "heirs to Ben Franklin"?

RA: Ben would be fascinated how our nation and our government have grown. He would perhaps be pleased that we have lasted this long. Remember, as he remarked when asked what sort of government we had been given, he replied, "a republic, if you can keep it."

I don't think he would identify with any one particular politician but perhaps a composite of a number of those to whom we have entrusted our government.

As to "heirs," we all are heirs to the values, the courage, and the integrity our founders left to a nation with the hope that each of us would treasure freedom and work to maintain America as a symbol of freedom and a beacon of hope to the world.

F: Where's the single best spot to get a glimpse of "Old Philadelphia"?

RA: If you want the true flavor of a neighborhood, visit Elfreth's Alley. If you want the feel of the beginning of our nation, walk the area around Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall.

F: What's your favorite bar or pub in the city?

RA: While I have many places I love I don't think anyone should miss the City Tavern, at 2nd and Walnut, which no less a figure than John Adams proclaimed "the most genteel tavern in America."

F: Where can visitors expect to see you perform?

RA: I perform at the Franklin Institute for special occasions. You can find me more easily in the area of Franklin Court where his former home was located. There is a wonderful courtyard, print shop, and museum there, and no one should miss it.